For Summer Skiing, Head (Way) Down South

It’s officially summer in the northern hemisphere, which means holidays, road trips, and the urge to visit national parks. But if you’re craving a cooler sort of escape this season, consider a ski trip…to the southern hemisphere. With winter just settling in, places like Chile and New Zealand offer incredible skiing at a time of year when most North Americans are hitting the beach. The best part? Skiing in these destinations can be a bargain. Here are our favorite “summer” skiing destinations.

New Zealand: Cardrona Alpine Resort
Visiting New Zealand is a dream for lots of Americans. If you head down there to see the epic landscapes used as backdrops in the Lord of the Rings movies, consider hitting the slopes, too. Cardrona, New Zealand is easily accessible from Queenstown on the south island. Skiers will find plenty to love, and snowboarders will have a tough time finding better terrain anywhere. At under $100 for a lift ticket, it’s actually cheaper than many of the venues surrounding Vail, Aspen, and other high-end mountains in the U.S.

Chile: Ski Portillo
Portillo, Chile is readily accessible via a flight into Santiago, and if you’re looking for a value-packed all-inclusive stay, this is the place. For around $2,000 per week, you’ll receive slope-side lodging, four meals each day, lift tickets, and access to the resort’s fitness and entertainment facilities. Split that cost with another couple, and you’re looking at well under $150 per night. In fact, it’ll probably cost you more just to check your ski gear on your flight!

Australia: Falls Creek
This resort is quintessentially Australian, and family-friendly too. Plus, you’ll find diverse trail options. With most domestic airlines flying to Australia, you’ll have an easier time using miles for your flights – especially in winter, when awards seats Down Under are much easier to come by.

Do you have any summer vacation ideas that aren’t exactly… summery? Let us know in the comments below.